A 15-member "live music task force" will begin work to try to encourage the growth of a musical economy in Austin, Texas.
"Council has charged the task force with recommendations in four areas: the possible creation of an entertainment district; building requirements to mitigate sound issues; the use of incentives to redevelop local venues; and current and potential programs to assist musicians. An October deadline has been set for the task force to report back to Council."
"Each of the four areas is going to be an interesting, if complicated, discussion. For instance, what sort of financial support should the city offer to club venues, if any? Is the maintenance of the "Live Music Capital" moniker important enough to provide ongoing city support?"
"Or will Austin residents view that kind of support as equivalent to the loan the city offered to Las Manitas? That's something the task force will discuss."
"Or what about the creation of an entertainment district? Sixth Street once was the home to a thriving club scene, Oveisi said. Is that the best way to support music, or is it more logical to provide some space among major club venues -- the Continental here, Stubb's there? Oveisi said he doesn't have an answer, but he's ready to study the issue."
